Announcement

Dear Parents and Carers 

We have been informed that a child who attends our nursery has been diagnosed with scarlet fever. The child has not been with us this week but we wanted you to be aware so you can be vigilant with your child/ren.  Although scarlet fever is usually a mild illness, it should be treated with antibiotics to minimise the risk of complications and reduce the spread to others. 

 

The  symptoms of scarlet fever include a sore throat, headache, fever, nausea and vomiting. This is followed by a fine red rash which typically first appears on the chest and stomach, rapidly spreading to other parts of the body. On more darkly pigmented skin, the scarlet rash may be harder to spot, but it should feel like 'sandpaper'. The face can be flushed red but pale around the mouth.

 

If you think you, or your child, has scarlet fever: 

· see your GP or contact NHS 111 as soon as possible

· make sure that you/your child takes the full course of any antibiotics prescribed by the doctor. 

· stay at home, away from nursery, school or work for at least 24 hours after starting the antibiotic treatment, to avoid spreading the infection.

 

Complications 

Children who have had chickenpox recently are more likely to develop more serious infection during an outbreak of scarlet fever and so parents should remain vigilant for symptoms such as a persistent high fever, cellulitis (skin infection) and arthritis (joint pain and swelling). If you are concerned for any reason please seek medical assistance immediately. If your child has an underlying condition which affects their immune system, you should contact your GP or hospital doctor to discuss whether any additional measures are needed. 

 

Yours sincerely,  

Caroline Lancey

Interim Head of School